People who don't know performance may scoff at this 1973 Mercury Comet, ut guys in the know understand that this neat coupe has a better power-to-weight ratio than the Mustang and the production figures are a fraction of the more famous pony car. Fast, are, nd affordable? Maybe it's time to have a closer look at the Comet.The Comet's lines have aged rather well, ith the new-fastback profile accentuating the long hood and short deck theme that created the Mustang. Repainted a few years ago in basic black, t has a clean, urposeful look and you'll likely get more than a few folks asking for more information when you stop for gas. Is it perfect? No, ut go find another one that's led an easy life like this one has. It hasn't been modified and it didn't require major surgery to get back into shape, nd while there are a few signs of use, he overall look is pretty darned nice. We like the white pinstripe that highlights the gentle curve of the fenders and they didn't shave or delete any of the original trim. There's a very clean, traight grille up front, orrect 'Comet' script on the sail panels, nd blacked-out bumpers for an updated look. Believe us, his car will definitely get its share of second glances.The interior is in excellent condition and if we had to guess, e'd say that the seat covers and carpets are new, ut everything else may very well be original. It's basic, es, ut that's part of the appeal with cars like this, nd a few minor upgrades make a big difference. There's a fat wood-rimmed steering wheel, or example, hich adds a sporty look without changing the overall vibe. You also get a pair of round dials that are reminiscent of the Mustang's instrument panel and the markings are still clear and easy to read. Remarkably, he original AM radio remains in the dash, nd in 1973, hat was standard fare in the Comet, long with a heater and defroster and little else. The back seat is in excellent condition and is roomy enough for real-sized adults and there's a nice, ig trunk that looks to be in excellent order.Pop the hood and you'll see where the real money was spent: a 302 cubic inch V8, etter known as the 5.0, nd it gives this Comet some real performance credentials. There are plenty of upgrades from its humble 1973 specifications, ncluding a 4-barrel carburetor, o it's potent without being fussy. It's nicely detailed under the hood, oo, ncluding the finned valve covers and matching air cleaner, s well as bright Ford Blue paint on the block, iving it a very correct look. You'll also find power steering on the options list, aking this Comet easy to handle even with the fat rubber on the ground. It's backed by a C4 3-speed automatic transmission and original 8-inch rear end, o the components are rugged enough to put up with some fun, nd the cackling Flowmaster dual exhaust definitely has that Ford 5.0 performance sound. The floors show off years in a warm climate and the late-model Mustang wheels look exactly right on this vintage Comet, specially wearing right-sized 225/50/17 Firestone radials all around.You won't see one of these at every cruise-in and the low curb weight and strong-running V8 make it a ton of fun to drive. Get into the game with something that'll stand out and doesn't cost a fortune. Call today!